HBO Max is launching a rating system to let subscribers provide direct feedback on TV shows and movies they like — or hate — in order to provide more personalized content recommendations.
It’s not a new concept: Back in 2001, Netflix launched a five-star ratings system for its DVD-by-mail service to help its algorithms figure out other titles you might be interested in. In 2017, the streamer scrapped the five-star ratings, replacing it with thumbs-up/thumbs-down buttons. In 2022 added a “two thumbs up” option. (YouTube introduced a five-star user ratings system in 2005, before shifting to its like/dislike feedback buttons in 2010.)
Now HBO Max is adopting a content-ratings approach similar to Netflix’s current system. Starting Wednesday, HBO Max began rolling out the new feedback system, with buttons for “Love,” “Like,” and “Not For Me.” Warner Bros. Discovery said the new feature is available on “select devices” across web, connected TV and mobile.
According to WBD, if an HBO Max user marks a title “Not For Me,” those will be “deprioritized” across the subscriber’s profile, while those marked “Love” will generate a custom “Because You Loved” rail with suggested titles. The new feature lets subscribers to actively share feedback on titles, providing direct input that helps shape personalized recommendations across their profile, according to the company.
The feedback buttons will appear on HBO Max’s content details page of each title and in the player when a user finishes a movie or series. By engaging with the feature, users influence the recommendations they receive, helping them discover content that matches their preferences.
The new HBO Max user-rating system comes after WBD on Tuesday announced price increases of $1-$2 per month more across all plans.
